Greece Aims to Launch Aviation Academy with University Partnerships

The Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) is exploring the establishment of an aviation academy in Greece, according to HCAA Governor Christos Tsitouras.

During the recent ITC 2024 – 7th Infrastructure and Transport Conference, Tsitouras participated in an air transport panel where he addressed critical issues related to the development of aviation in Greece.

In his remarks, Tsitouras emphasized the need to establish the aviation academy in partnership with Greek and European universities. He stated that if successful, this initiative could enhance both Greece’s civil aviation sector and its economy.

“We are committed to supporting this effort, in collaboration with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, to realize this vision, with the contribution of the new Greek Commissioner for Transport and Tourism at the European Commission, Apostolos Tzitzikostas,” Tsitouras said.

Current State of Civil Aviation in Greece

Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority Governor Christos Tsitouras. Photo source: HCAA

Describing the current state of civil aviation in Greece, Tsitouras noted that the sector has fallen behind, lacking the necessary international engagement and outward focus that the industry demands.

He highlighted the urgent need to upgrade ground services and emphasized the importance of having well-trained personnel. He further indicated that the HCAA aims to strengthen collaboration among all stakeholders in the aviation industry, including political leadership, airlines, airports, and the Hellenic Aviation Service Providers (HASP).

Overtourism and infrastructure needs

Tsitouras also addressed the issue of overtourism, asserting that it is a phenomenon that occurs locally and seasonally. “It can be effectively managed through concrete measures that the government is currently implementing. The future requires us to enhance our infrastructure to accommodate a larger influx of tourists,” he concluded, citing the investment program for the expansion of Athens International Airport (AIA) and Fraport’s complementary projects at regional airports in Greece as key examples.